12 Point vs. 6 Point Wrenches in Large Sizes

12 Point vs. 6 Point Wrenches in Large Sizes

05-04-2008, 03:43 PM

#1 (permalink)

rbattelle

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Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Dayton, OH Posts: 8,605 Old Reader's Rigs Gallery

12 Point vs. 6 Point Wrenches in Large Sizes

Regarding wrench box ends, I've always believed that 6-points are stronger than 12s, since 6-points have thicker walls (on average) and grip hex-heads more on the flats.

As a result, I buy mostly 6-point stuff.

But I am continuously frustrated by the lack of wrenches with 6-point boxes in large sizes (over 1"). Since the torque on fasteners above 1" is usually going to be very high, why can't I find a 6-point 1-1/4" boxed end wrench?

Furthermore, in order to get large sockets (above 1-1/4") in 6-point configuration, I have to buy impact sockets. Seems like most (all?) 3/4"-drive hand sockets are 12-point. (I notice Armstrong does make large 6-point hand-drive sockets, but only on deep lengths).

Can anyone explain this apparent contradiction?

Ryan

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